How’s the week treating you? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you encouraged? Maybe you’re lower than a snake’s belly. (A favorite expression of my Dad.) I read two paragraphs that stopped me in my tracks.

I’m reading a wonderful new book by one of my favorite authors, Ray Ortlund. “Eat, Drink & Be Merry: A Gospel Call to Bold Enjoyment” is nothing short of incredible. So far it’s convicting, encouraging, and sobering.

Here are the paragraphs that grabbed my attention:

“As I write these words, it’s October here in Tennessee, the best month of the year. The temperatures are moderate, the humidity is low, and the trees are exploding with bright autumn colors. Vermont, it isn’t. Still, it’s gorgeous outside. But a change is coming. Soon it will the long, dark months of winter. The trees will be bare, the skies dull gray, and the cold wind will bite.

Here’s my point. I can respond to the inevitable loss of my Tennessee October in two opposite ways. One response is a sneer: “Sure, it’s nice out today. But it won’t last. Meh.” The other response is a smile: “Today is awesome! And it won’t last long. So I’m going to take it all in right now!” The wise response is obvious. Wisdom enjoys this brief life.” (Pg.6)

Mrs. Kayla often says, “Look for the glimmer.” Find that which makes you smile and be thankful for it. Enjoy it. Savor it.

In the fight for joy,

Brian